8th District Court

Courtroom Etiquette

Policy Governing the Use of Electronic Communication Devices [MCR 8.115(C)]

Electronic communication devices include cell phones, pagers, two way portable radios, lap top computers, and any other electronic device that possesses the capability of communicating information from one person to another.

Electronic communication devices must be turned off prior to entering a courtroom.

No electronic communication devices may be used in any courtroom, unless authorization is given by the Judge assigned to that courtroom.

Jurors are not permitted to use electronic communication devices while in attendance at trial or during deliberation. [See MCR 2.516(B)(2)]

No photographs may be taken of any jurors or witnesses.

No photographs may be taken inside any courtroom without permission of the court.

Failure to comply with this policy may result in a fine, including confiscation of the device, incarceration, or both for contempt of court.
To view the contempt policy, click here.

Noise - Silence is Mandatory. Disruptions to courtroom proceedings such as conversations, noisy children, and ringing cell phones cannot be tolerated as it affects the quality of the electronic record.

Addressing the Court:

Address the judge as "Your Honor" or "Judge." Address the Magistrate as "Magistrate."

Stand when addressing the court. Please advise the judge or magistrate if you have a disability that would make standing difficult.

Only one person at a time may speak when addressing the court during a court proceeding.

Speak clearly and loudly when addressing the Court. This will assure that the judge and parties to the proceeding will understand your statements.